Dessert

Cranberry Jalapeño Dip (Costco Copycat) Recipe

ByHugo Harnd December 8, 2025December 8, 2025

Introduction

This Cranberry Jalapeño Dip is a vibrant and flavorful appetizer that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. Inspired by the popular Costco recipe, it’s easy to make and sure to be a hit at any gathering.

A white bowl filled with a creamy, pink dip that has a smooth and slightly swirled texture. The dip is topped with glossy red cranberries, bright green sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, and small green herb flakes scattered evenly across the surface. The bowl is placed next to a white plate holding pale yellow crackers with specks of black seasoning. In the background, there is a small white bowl filled with more cranberries on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 oz fresh cranberries (1 bag)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 small bunch green onions (about 5), chopped
1–2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice
¼ teaspoon salt
8 oz cream cheese, softened
Optional garnish: extra cilantro or lime zest
Crackers, tortilla chips, or crostini for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Add the cranberries, sugar, green onions, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but not pureed.
Step 2: Transfer the cranberry salsa to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Place the cream cheese on a serving plate and let it soften at room temperature. You can spread it gently or leave it whole for spooning.
Step 4: Spoon the chilled cranberry jalapeño salsa over the cream cheese. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Garnish with extra chopped cilantro or lime zest if desired. Serve with crackers, tortilla chips, or toasted baguette slices.

Tips & Variations

For more heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in the salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
Try adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the salsa for a fruity twist.
If you don’t have a food processor, finely chop the ingredients by hand for a chunkier texture.

Storage

Store the dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, keep the cream cheese and cranberry salsa separate and assemble just before serving. Reheat slightly to soften if needed, but it’s best served chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a smooth, light pink creamy dip forms the main layer. Scattered within and on top of the dip are small dark red cranberries and finely chopped green herbs. The center is decorated with sliced bright green jalapeño rings and chopped green onions, adding fresh pops of color. The bowl sits partially on a white plate holding light yellow crackers with specks of herbs, all placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, another white bowl contains more of the dark red cranberries. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cranberry salsa a day in advance and refrigerate it to let the flavors develop. Assemble the dip just before serving for the freshest taste.